Physiological and Biochemical Responses of Leafy Coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) to Organic Amendments and Biofertilizers

Abstract

The present investigation was carried out during the Rabi season of 2024–25 at the Vegetable Research Centre, Department of Horticulture, JNKVV, Jabalpur, to assess the influence of organic nutrient sources and biofertilisers on the physiological and biochemical characteristics of leafy coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.). The experiment was conducted in a randomised block design comprising eleven treatments and three replications. Different combinations of recommended dose of fertilisers (RDF), farmyard manure (FYM), phosphate-solubilising bacteria (PSB), potassium-solubilising bacteria (KSB), Nitrogen Consortia, Bactobooster, EM Culture and Biofertisol were evaluated. The findings indicated that the application of integrated nutrient management practices significantly enhanced the growth and quality attributes of coriander. Among the treatments, T₅ (75% RDF + PSB + KSB + Bactobooster) exhibited superior performance with respect to chlorophyll content index, leaf area index, leaf area duration, leaf biomass, stem biomass, vitamin C content and fibre content. The maximum protein content (2.63%) was recorded under T₇ (75% RDF + PSB + KSB + EM Culture), whereas T₄ (FYM + Nitrogen Consortia) produced the highest essential oil content (0.157%). The improved performance of these treatments may be attributed to better nutrient availability, enhanced microbial activity and increased photosynthetic efficiency resulting from the combined use of fertilisers and biofertilisers. The study demonstrated that integrating biofertilisers with reduced levels of chemical fertilisers can effectively improve the physiological and biochemical quality of leafy coriander while contributing to sustainable and environmentally friendly crop production.